What's Happening?
A recent study led by researchers from NYU Langone Health, the University of Glasgow, and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation has identified chronic kidney disease (CKD) as a significant contributor
to global cardiovascular deaths, accounting for approximately 12% of such fatalities. The study, published in The Lancet, reveals that CKD affects about 14% of adults worldwide and was responsible for 1.5 million deaths in 2023. The research highlights the condition's growing prevalence, with the number of affected individuals rising from 378 million in 1990 to 788 million in 2023. The study emphasizes the need for early intervention and lifestyle changes to prevent the progression of CKD, which often goes undiagnosed until advanced stages.
Why It's Important?
The findings underscore the urgent need for global health agencies to prioritize CKD alongside other major health concerns like cancer and heart disease. The World Health Organization has already recognized CKD as a health priority, aiming to reduce early deaths from noncommunicable diseases by one-third before 2030. The study's insights could inform public health policies and strategies to address CKD's impact on quality of life and healthcare systems. The research also highlights disparities in access to treatment, particularly in lower-income regions, where therapies like dialysis and transplants are less accessible.
What's Next?
The study calls for increased urine testing to catch CKD early and ensure patients can access necessary treatments. Researchers advocate for the development of new medications to slow disease progression and reduce cardiovascular risks. The findings will be presented at the American Society of Nephrology's annual Kidney Week conference, potentially influencing future research and healthcare policies. The study's authors stress the importance of recognizing CKD as a major public health issue and integrating it into global health agendas.
